Intention Setting: How to Get More Out of Your Yoga Class

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If you've ever been to a yoga class
, you may have been asked to set an intention at some point during the session. Have you ever wondered if you're doing it right? Or why it really matters?

No need to overthink it: "Intention" is just a friendlier word for goal, and setting one can deepen the connection to the work you're about to do in class.

4 Ideas for Intention Inspiration

While intentions (like yogis) come in all shapes and sizes, there are some common themes. Consider riffing on one of these ideas If you're struggling with what to focus on — or you feel stuck with the same intention, class after class.

Arms Around the World

Do yoga locally, but think globally! It’s a common intention to hope for positive change in the world.

Look Inside

The slow, meditative movements in yoga classes can provide an opportunity for deep self reflection. Set an intention that looks inward, helps you appreciate your fine qualities, and identifies some habits or traits that are due for an update.

#Goals

What do you want to get (or give) out of life? This type of intention is a way to honor your personal ambitions and commit to making them happen. Strong postures such as warrior poses can help strengthen your resolve!

Seek Stillness

Many yogis set the intention of simply finding a moment of stillness. Often, that's enough.

What to Know About Intentions

There’s no right or wrong way. Your intention doesn’t have to be lofty or altruistic. It's your business, and can be as personal (or as self-centered!) as you want.

You're allowed to change your mind. If you decide halfway through the practice that another intention feels better, go for it! It's your class.

You might get the feels. Just setting an intention can sometimes stir things up inside of you — and it's not always comfortable. It is good for you, though. Try to observe your feelings without judging, and know that this is totally normal.

You can skip it. An intention is supposed to heighten your practice. If you're not feeling it, don't force it. Simply being present in the room is a sort of intention in itself.

When your clear intention guides the chi and the chi directs the body, then your external actions are a reflection of your internal motivations. This unifies you into a coherent being, physicality led by spirit. Continue your study of the form with High Pat on Horse and Kick with Right Heel.

Meet yoga instructor Caley Alyssa and follow her through six yoga sessions, each with a different goal and focus. From AM to PM to Stretch to Core, Transcend’s offerings go beyond the generic yoga class and are guaranteed to fit your specific needs and interests.

The monkey represents our impulses, uncontrolled thoughts, desires, and fight-or-flight responses. Practice taming the monkey mind, cultivating chi and character by releasing points of tension, clearing energetic bottlenecks, and accumulating merit and virtue. Continue your study of the form with the Hands Strum the Pipa, and Parry and Punch.